I am writing this in my office during break time at my school that currently has no students.
If it was any normal school day, there would be hundreds of students walking down the hallways talking, laughing, or being in the library studying for the end of year exams. Of all the students, I feel most saddened for the current graduating Class of 2020.
This time of the year should be one of the most exciting times for high school seniors as they get ready to graduate and prepare themselves for the next stage of their lives. However, as we all know, these rites of passage for most teenagers have been upended due to COVID-19 pandemic. As a former high school principal from New York, many of my colleagues have shared with me that it has been a very challenging year for our students, especially for the graduating seniors. Instead of "fun" events and activities (e,g, Senior Breakfast, Senior Prom, Yearbook signing, etc.), the year has been full of disruptions, uncertainties and yes online learning.
The good news is that many schools are planning creative ways to celebrate and connect with students like virtual prom, senior awards night, and of course virtual graduation ceremony.
I am a firm believer in the saying, "Hope Springs Eternal," which means people will always find a reason to hope, even in the bleakest situations.
To the Class of 2020, I want to wish you all the best and always remember that the experiences that you had this year will only make you stronger and more resilient.
Dream Big and Good Luck!
